This also aims at achieving the goals of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the provisions of the Rights of Persons With Disability Act, 2016. It is pertinent to mention here that the Government of India launched the Accessible India Campaign (Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan) in 2015 to facilitate barrier-free urban development for persons with disabilities.
Three broad domains were identified for the purpose. They include- Built environment, Information Technology and Transportation. So far, it has been a nationwide flagship campaign to achieve universal access and development for persons with disabilities, said UGC in a letter.
“The NEP 2020 has also envisioned the provisions for extensive use of technology in teaching and learning, removing language barriers, increasing access for Divyang students and educational planning and management including full equity and inclusion as the cornerstone of all educational decisions to ensure that all students are able to thrive in the system if modern education,” the UGC letter read.
Click here for the guidelines.
The UGC said that the SheRNI platform will connect more than 81,000 profiles of Indian women in science and research across various domains.
UGC Chairman Prof. Mamidala Jagadesh Kumar told IANS that UGC wants to ensure equal representation and visibility for the contributions of women scientists and faculty members.
“Recognising them is one of the core pillars of a developed India through their research outcomes and scalable solutions,” he said.
He said that SheRNI confronts stereotypes and will inspire the next generation of female scientists, researchers and faculty members.
"The objective of SheRNI is to create a national-level expert platform for women faculty members and facilitate the exchange of expertise, insights, and experiences across diverse fields," he said.
The UGC Chairman said that the SheRNI database has 81,818 women faculty members registered and has 6,75,313 publications and 11, 543 patents.
He said that the platform can be accessed at https://sherni.inflibnet.ac.in
The Overarching Committee was constituted to propose actionable recommendations to strengthen the accreditation processes by NAAC, NBA, and the ranking system by NIRF. The Committee was also asked to recommend how more institutions would come into the fold of accreditation and to prepare a roadmap for aligning NAAC, NBA, and NIRF to the proposed NAC in HECI.
The proposed reforms include:
The transition from the present 8-point grading system of NAAC to an adapted Binary Accreditation System. Encourage Accredited Institutions to raise their bar, evolve in-depth or in-breadth in disciplines from ‘Level 1’ to ‘Level 4’ Institutions of National Excellence, and then to ‘Level-5’ i.e. Institutions of Global Excellence for Multi-Disciplinary Research and Education.
Enable a Choice-based Ranking System for diverse stakeholders (students, funding agencies, industries, etc.)
Amalgamate Programme-Accreditation and Institutional-Accreditation, considering their inter-dependency; and evolve a Composite Assessment System.
Simplify the accreditation process, especially for the first cycle, and bring down periodicity for Re-accreditation to six years. Existing stipulations for annual re-approvals (by AICTE for technical educational programmes) may be eliminated, if the scope of the programme does not alter significantly.
Include all HEIs and every programme in the newly proposed assessment and 7 accreditation system with due regard for their statutory dispensations (e.g. IITs)
Develop a ‘Unified Elicitation Tool’ to collect the superset of data from HEIs for varied purposes (of approval, accreditation, ranking) with an in-built design for collateral cross-checking to check the authenticity of data and in conjunction with it, introduce maximally the technology-driven modern systems, to replace the existing manual/hybrid systems of assessment and accreditation thereby minimising subjectivity and enhancing transparency and credibility.
The ‘One Nation One Data Platform’ may be upgraded to a robust architecture to provide adequate access control and security features among other aspects.
In a letter to the vice-chancellor of universities and principal of colleges, the UGC has requested all the HEls vide mail and reminders to act on the complaints received from the students seeking a refund of fees paid to the institutes after those students migrated to other institutions.
The University Grants Commission (Redressal of Grievances of Students) Regulations, 2023 also states action in case of delay in, or denial of the refund of fees due to a student who withdraws admission within the time mentioned in the prospectus, subject to guidelines, if any, issued by the Commission from time to time.
“In view of above, you are hereby advised to pay special attention towards fee refund of the aggrieved students and abide by UGC's guidelines / regulations issued with respect to fee refund of the students,” UGC letter read.
In another notice, the UGC has asked Universities and affiliated colleges to take note of the provision given in the "Curriculum and Credit Framework for Undergraduate Programmes".
Students who have already enrolled and are pursuing UG programme as per Choice Based Credit System (CBCS) are eligible to pursue 4-year undergraduate programme and the university concerned may provide bridge courses (including online courses) to enable them for transition to 4-year IJG programme, UGC said.
In a letter to the all vice-chancellors of universities, the UGC has said to organise at least one meeting of the Ombudsperson(s) every six months at the beginning of the semester with the students.
On February 5, the UGC Chairman had discussed the implementation of the UGC (Redressal of Grievances of Students) Regulations, 2023 with the Ombudspersons of the Universities in a virtual meeting.
It is mandatory for all higher education institutions to appoint ombudspersons to address student complaints. Students, facing any of the following, can approach the ombudsperson of their institution:
1. Irregularities in admission
2. Refusal to admit according to the institution’s declared admission policy
3. Non-publication of a prospectus or publishing false/misleading information
4. Withholding or refusal to return any document to induce payment of unnecessary fees
5. Demanding money beyond specified charges in the admission policy
6. Violation of laws regarding reservation of seats in admission
7. Non-payment or delayed payment of scholarships or financial aid
8. Delay in examinations, result declaration, or failure to provide specified student amenities
9. Non-transparent or unfair evaluation practices
10. Delay or denial of fees refund for withdrawing students
11. Complaints of discrimination against specific categories of students
12. Denial of promised quality education
13. Harassment or victimisation of students, excluding cases under penal provisions
14. Actions contrary to the institution’s statures, ordinances, rules, regulations, or guidelines
15. Actions contrary to UGC regulations and guidelines issued by the Commission, or the concerned regulatory body
According to UGC, there is a need to increase the awareness among students about the provisions made by universities for the implementation of UGC Student Grievances Regulations, 2023.
At the meeting, it was also suggested that there should be periodic meetings of the Vice-Chancellor and the Ombudsperson(s) to review the implementation of the Regulations, 2023.
Meanwhile, the UGC has listed several steps to make the students aware about the implementation of the UGC Student Grievances Regulations, 2023. These include:
- Placing banners/boards in prominent locations throughout the campus, as well as on the campuses of affiliated colleges
- Publishing information on the websites/Bulletin of Information
Accordingly the UGC has also released guidelines for internship/research internship for the Under Graduate (UG) Students. UGC believes that the employability of graduates can be improved by developing practical experience and exposure with the required right kind of attitude for the workplace.
The undergraduate internships would be classified into two types: i. Internship for enhancing the employability ii. Internship for developing the research aptitude
The UGC has asked Higher Education Institutes to play an important role in arranging internships for their students by creating a structured robust mechanism for internship programmes under their Research and Development (R&D) Cell. The R&D cell may appoint the coordinator or create a well-defined mechanism or structure at the HEI level for smooth coordination and functioning of internships across diverse disciplines.
A minimum of 2-4 credits, out of the required minimum 120/160 credits, of a 3-year UG degree/4-year UG degree (Honours)/4-year UG degree (Honours with Research) can be assigned for Internship as per the National Higher Education Qualifications Framework (NHEQF) and Curriculum and Credit Framework for Undergraduate Programme (CCFUP).
An internship of 60 to 120 hours duration after the 4th semester will be mandatory for the students enrolled in UG degree programmes. For an internship, one credit of Internship means two-hour engagement per week.
Accordingly, in a semester of 15 weeks’ duration, one credit in this course is equivalent to 30 hours of engagement in a semester. For the 4-year UG degree programme (Honours with Research), engagement of students in the dissertations/research project during the entire 8th semester of 12 credits will be considered as a mandatory component for the award of the degree.
The students need to essentially submit the research project/ dissertations/ thesis/project work to the allotted mentor.
The NEP also recommends that each institution will make a strategic Institutional Development Plan with the joint participation of Board members, institutional leaders, faculty, students, and staff. The guidelines have been made by the UGC to enable the Higher Educational Institutions to undertake the academic and professional excellence journey in pursuance of the goals set in line with the vision of the NEP 2020.
“The guidelines for the Institutional Development Plan for Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) serve as a guiding light for institutions striving to evolve and excel within this dynamic educational framework. This comprehensive framework is a culmination of insights, best practices, and collective wisdom gleaned from esteemed leaders, policymakers, and educational visionaries across India,” said UGC Chairman Prof. M Jagadesh Kumar.
According to Kumar, these guidelines advocate for a holistic approach to institutional growth by emphasising interdisciplinary collaboration, industry alliances, and community engagement.
The guidelines encourage HEIs to tailor their development strategies while upholding fundamental principles of academic integrity, fairness, and responsibility, Kumar added.
Click Here To Check The Detailed Guidelines On UGC Website
As per the draft guidelines, a College to which these Rules apply shall be declared to be fit to receive grants from the Central Government, the University Grants Commission (UGC), or any other Organization receiving funds from the Central Government, only if the UGC is satisfied that the college fulfils the following conditions.
The College has valid accreditation from the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC)
OR
National Board of Accreditation (NBA) accreditation for at least 60% of the total eligible programes for accreditation for the Colleges offering more than three programmes. In case the number of programmes being offered is less than three, then each of the eligible programme must have been accredited.
OR
Ranked in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) ranking in the respective category (thrice after participating 5 times/twice after participating thrice).
Application for recognition under clause 12B of the UGC Act, 1956
The College, fulfilling the eligibility criteria specified in these Rules may apply 'online' to the University Grants Commission for considering the application for its recognition under Section 12B of the UGC Act, 1956 along with the processing fee as decided by the University Grants Commission from time to time.
As per the UGC, the GO4Youth Olympiad is a distinctive interdisciplinary programme tailored for students aged 18-25 years in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) across India.
It is scheduled to take place online from April 8 to 12,2024. It is designed to create awareness focusing on environmental and sustainability issues.
Earlier, the Supreme Court had directed for compulsory implementation of Environmental Studies at the undergraduate level and further integration of environmental education into curricula to equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills for addressing complex environmental issues as per the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
The online launch of the GO4Youth Olympiad is scheduled to be held on January 31, 2024
Important Dates:
Registration Deadline: February 25, 2024
Examination: April 8 to 12, 2024
Benefits for Students:
E-certificates for all participants.
Merit and distinction e-certificates for rank holders.
Cash awards for the top three positions.
Membership in TERI's youth network.
Internship opportunities at TERI and other renowned institutes.
Development of an impressive environment portfolio
The UGC has asked Vice-Chancellors of Universities to nominate two senior faculties to become certified Master Trainers after the training.
As per the latest UGC notice, the nominated senior faculties shall be preferably of professor or associate professor level (one from Science and another from Commerce/Social Science) who can speak, write and teach in the local language where the university is located.
It is pertinent to mention here that the National Education Policy-2020 aims at promoting teaching-learning through local languages in Higher Education.
The NEP also emphasizes the offering of academic programmes in HEIs through mother tongue/local languages as a medium of instruction, in order to increase access and GER and also to promote the strength, usage, and vibrancy of all Bharatiya languages.
The policy lays thrust on the availability of high-quality study materials/books in local languages for the courses under various disciplines. UGC plans to conduct the training programme in face-to-face mode during February-March 2024.
The HEIs have also been asked to submit the same along with the application to the UGC for its approval. It is pertinent to mention here that the AICTE has decided to regulate HEIs offering BCA, BBA and BMS programmes for maintaining uniform quality and academic standards across management and computer application programmes on similar lines of postgraduate courses/ programmes (MCA/MBA).
UGC (ODL Programme and Online Programmes) Regulations, 2020 stipulates that Higher Educational Institutions shall have the approval/ recommendation for programmes falling under the ambit of the respective statutory authority or regulatory council offering the programmes in open and distance learning (ODL) mode and/or online mode, while submitting an application to the Commission, the UGC letter read.
“HEIs already recognised/ entitled to offer BCA, BBA and BMS programmes with any specialisation in ODL mode or online mode shall obtain approval/ recommendation from AICTE to offer programmes and submit the same to UGC for continuation of recognition/ entitlement of these programmes for academic year 2024-25, academic session July-August 2024 and onwards,”the UGC letter added.
It is pertinent to mention here that UGC implemented various scholarship/fellowship schemes in offline mode till 30.06.2016. And, UGC categorically stated that no claim would be entertained after January 31, 2024.
Similarly, stakeholders (HEI's and Fellows) have been requested to claim their pending dues i.e., pre-revised/revised fellowship/house rent allowance/contingency admissible up to December 2023, by February 8, 2024 on Scholarship Fellowship Management Portal (SFMP).
In another notice, UGC found that many eligible renewal applicants are yet to apply for renewal of their scholarship under the Pradhan Mantri Uchchatar Shiksha Protsahan (PM-USP) central sector scheme of Scholarship through the National Scholarship Portal (NSP). The Ministry of Education invites applications under the scheme.
“As per the revised guidelines, the students who missed to apply for renewal of application online on NSP, will be allowed to apply for renewal of scholarship for subsequent year on NSP, if he/ she fulfils eligibility condition for renewal,” UGC letter read.
In its latest letter, UGC has asked vice-chancellors of universities and college principals for allocation of land/built-up space within their respective campuses for establishing working women hostels.
This directive came after the Ministry of Women and Child Development (MWCD) suggested identifying suitable land /built-up space within the campuses of the universities for establishing Working Women Hostel (WWH).
If the universities provide such space, the cost of construction and /or management cost for running the facility can be provided by MCWD. It has also requested to convey a list of 10-15 such identified spaces within the next 10 days.
“The Higher Educational Institutions are requested to take note of it and take appropriate action by submitting their proposals to the Ministry of Women and Child Development (MWCD),” UGC’s letter read.
It is pertinent to mention here that India's progress in STEM education sees a commendable 43% representation of women graduates. As per the vision of the Prime Minister, women should lead in the Amrit Kaal, as without ensuring their progress, the overall progress of society is not possible.
The availability of better educational and employment opportunities is among the key factors prompting women and girls from rural areas to relocate to TIER-I and metro cities. Apart from this, safe and affordable accommodation is also very important as well as challenging.
Sakhi Niwas (Working Women's Hostel), a component of the Umbrella scheme of Mission Shakti, emerges as a beacon of hope.
The latest UGC reminder came after it was found that some universities have still not changed their ceremonial dress code during the convocation.
“The use of handloom fabrics would not only instill a sense of pride in being Indian but also promote the handloom industry in the country, which provides employment opportunities to many people living in rural areas. It is again requested that the Universities consider switching to handloom fabrics as ceremonial dress,” said UGC in its latest notice.
It is pertinent to mention here that UGC had earlier written to Universities on July 15, 2015 and June 6, 2019 and requested to consider using ceremonial robes made out of handloom fabrics for special occasions such as convocation, etc. Apparel made from handloom fabrics is more comfortable in India's climate.
This came after Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasised the revival of handloom and improving earnings of the handloom weavers. Using ceremonial robes made from handloom fabrics would not only give a sense of pride of being Indian but also be more comfortable in the hot and humid weather. The greater usage of handloom garments for apparel would promote the handloom industry in the country.
The University Grants Commission (UGC) had earlier notified the UGC (Credit Framework for Online Learning Courses through (SWAYAM) Regulations, 2O21 during March, 2O21 which facilitates an Institution/University to allow credit transfer up to 4O% of the total courses being offered by any higher education institution in a particular programme in a semester through online learning courses on SWAYAM Platform.
AICTE has also adopted the credit transfer up to 40% on UGC pattern in continuation of AICTE (Credit Framework for Online Learning Courses through SWAYAM) Regulation.
“The students studying in conventional Institutes/Colleges can transfer the credits earned through the SWAYAM Courses into their academic records. About 295 Institutions/Universities have recognized the SWAYAM Courses for credit transfer so far and many others are in the process of doing the same,” the AICTE letter read.
It is pertinent to mention here that the national online education MOOCs platform ‘SWAYAM was launched by the Ministry of Education on July 19, 2017. Over 3000 courses have been offered through SWAYAM and the total enrolment in these courses has crossed 3.89 crore.
As per AICTE, 1183 online credit courses consisting of 16 Yoga Credit Courses are offered on SWAYAM Platform for learners for the January 2024 semester. The examinations for these Credit Courses have been scheduled to be conducted by the National Testing Agency on May 18, 19, 25 and May 26, 2024.
In view of this, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has formulated guidelines, "Sustainable and Vibrant University-Industry Linkage System for Indian Universities".
These guidelines aim at developing a robust ecosystem for research, innovation, and knowledge transfer. The UGC in a letter has asked Higher Education Institutions to implement the guidelines.
Guidelines
Creation of R&D Clusters: Universities/ Institutes/ Colleges and Industries clusters may be created at the state level. Each cluster may be led by an institute of Central/ State Government in the region. Every educational University/Institute/College may create an Industry Relations Cell (IRC) for collaborations and every Industry, including the MSMEs, may create a University Relations Cell (URC) to enable the envisaged collaboration.
Constitution of the Cluster R&D Advisory Committee (RAC): The institute serving as the cluster head needs to establish a Regional R&D Advisory Committee (RAC) for advising the R&D growth in the cluster.
The Universities/Institutes/Colleges may appoint highly experienced industry professionals on appropriate governance bodies as per the requirement of regulatory bodies on the Board of Studies, Academic Councils, and other committees of the University/Institute/College.
The Universities/Institutes/Colleges may introduce internships/apprenticeships irrespective of the field, including Arts, Science and Engineering, as per the UGC Curriculum and Credit framework for programmes as notified and amended from time to time.
For more details, visit the official UGC website
In a letter to the vice-chancellors of all State Public Universities and Principal of Colleges, the UGC categorically asserted that, “Technical Education and its related aspects are controlled and governed by the All India Council for Technical Education Act, 1987.”
The AICTE was maintaining only the Post Graduate programs in Management (MBA) and Computer Applications (MCA) till date. However, AICTE has decided to regulate institutions offering BBA, BMS and BCA courses from next academic session to maintain uniform quality and academic standards across Management and Computer Applications program.
This will be on the similar lines of Post Graduate courses/ programmes (MCA/MBA), UGC said in its notice.
AICTE has informed that approved institutions have benefits like faculty development programs, scholarship schemes for students, model curriculum, free access E-books in Indian Languages through e-Kumbh portal, Margadarshan Scheme for institutions, PARAKH- Performance Analysis and Review for Holistic Development.
According to UGC, Technical Education means the programmes of education, research and training in engineering technology, architecture, town planning, management, pharmacy and applied arts and crafts and other such programmes (or) areas as the Central Government, may, in consultation with the Council, by notification in the official gazette.
Participants in the exam can retrieve the answer key from the official website at csirnet.nta.ac.in.
“The National Testing Agency (NTA) conducted the Joint Central Scientific & Industrial Research–University Grants Commission National Eligibility Test (Joint CSIR-UGC NET, December, 2023) on 26th, 27th & 28th December, 2023 in 356 examination Centers located in 176 Cities across the Country for 2,19,146 candidates in the Computer Based Test (CBT) mode,” read the official notification.
Candidates dissatisfied with the Answer Key have the option to challenge it by paying a non-refundable processing fee of Rs 200 per question. The deadline for raising objections is until January 8, 2024.
The challenges submitted by candidates will undergo verification by a panel of Subject Experts.
If a candidate's challenge is deemed valid, the Answer Key will be revised, and the changes will be applied to the responses of all candidates accordingly. The final result will be prepared and declared based on the revised Final Answer Key.
Visit the official CSIR UGC NET website at csirnet.nta.ac.in
Locate and select the link for the CSIR UGC NET 2023 answer key on the homepage
Provide the required login details and click on the submit button
Your admit card will be presented on the screen
Review the details on the admit card and download the page
Ensure to retain a hard copy of the admit card for future reference
In its letter to the vice-chancellor of Universities and College Principals, UGC has asked them to make effective use of the campaign of the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment (MoSlE).
The program coordinates and monitors all aspects of drug abuse prevention, assessment of the extent of the problem, preventive action, treatment and rehabilitation of users, dissemination of information, and public awareness.
“It is evident that the students and youth are particularly vulnerable to the menace of substance use, thus making them primary stakeholders for this Abhiyaan. HEIS can take action at the Institutional level to sensitize the campus and other possible surrounding locations through their faculty, NSS volunteers, student clubs, etc. through regular interventions and activities on substance use prevention,” UGC letter read.
UGC has also asked Universities and Colleges to create common clubs with various activities relating to ragging, non-use of substances, following safety measures, etc.
In its latest notice, UGC has categorically stated that an “M.Phil. degree is not a recognized degree. Regulation No. 14 of the UGC (Minimum Standards and Procedures for Award of Ph.D. Degree) Regulations 2022 clearly states that Higher Educational Institutions shall not offer M.Phil. program.”
It is pertinent to mention here that the UGC has framed the University Grants Commission (Minimum Standards and Procedures for Award of Ph.D. Degree) Regulations, 2022. The Regulations have been published in the Gazette of India on November 7, 2022.
UGC has asked Universities to stop admissions into M.Phil program.
“The Universities authorities, therefore, are requested to take immediate steps to stop admissions to the M.Phil. program for the 2023-24 academic year. Further, students are advised not to take admission in M.Phil. Program,” the UGC notice added.
UGC Chairman Professor M Jagadish Kumar said, “The UGC has asked universities to take immediate steps to stop admissions for the 2024-25 session. However, this will not affect students already doing MPhil.”
On questions being raised on validity of MPhil Degree for existing students, the UGC Chairman said that higher education institutions can award only the degrees specified by the commission.
The UGC (Minimum Standards and Procedure for Award of PhD Degree) Regulations were notified on November 7, 2022. Professor Kumar said that Rule 14 of the above notification states that the MPhil programme started before the notification of PhD rules will not be affected.
(With IANS inputs)
The SMS facility is backed by an Al engine operating on the SWAYAM Prabha portal, ensuring that information is structured and shared with students in an organised manner, the Commission said stating that it sees this intervention as a means to further the objective of providing quality education in regions with limited digital or internet access.
Meanwhile, all Higher Education Institutions have been urged to disseminate the information about the new SMS/WhatsApp feature initiative among faculty members and students. "This way, both faculty members and students can become aware of this facility and reap substantial benefits from it," it stated.
A banner sharing key information on the SMS/WhatsApp feature of SWAYAM Prabha is also enclosed, which may be shared via Social Media Channels/handles and displayed on the Notice Board and other important locations inside the institution campus, the Commission added.
What is SWAYAM Prabha?
SWAYAM Prabha is an initiative of NMEICT scheme under the Department of Higher Education, Ministry of Education. This initiative delivers high-quality educational content through Direct to Home (DTH) channels nationwide, 24/7, playing a crucial role in bridging the digital divide for students.
The number of channels in the SWAYAM Prabha initiative has increased from 22 to 40. Content for these channels is curated by various agencies of the Ministry of Education, including CEC/UGC, IITs, and IGNOU.
The content spans both postgraduate (PG) and undergraduate (UG) levels, encompassing a wide array of courses across disciplines such as Arts, Science, Commerce, Performing Arts, Social Science, Humanities, Engineering Technology, Law, Agriculture, Health Science, Design, Apparel, and more.
In its latest notice, the UGC has warned students to be cautious regarding the courses offered by higher educational intuitions (HEIs) or EdTech companies on agreements with foreign-based educational institutions.
It is pertinent to mention here that UGC had notified the University Grants Commission (Academic Collaboration between Indian and Foreign Higher Education Institutions to offer Twinning Programme, Joint Degree, Dual Degree Programmes) Regulations, 2022 and University Grants Commission (Setting up and Operation of Campuses of Foreign Higher Educational Institutions in India) Regulations, 2023.
The Regulations mandate that, ‘No Foreign Higher Educational Institution shall offer any programme in India without the prior approval of the Commission. The regulations also mandate that the HEls shall not offer programnnes under any franchise arrangement and that such programmes shall not be recognised by the UGC.’
UGC has found that several HEls/colleges have entered into collaborative agreements/arrangements with foreign-based educational institutions/providers not recognized by the Commission and have been facilitating the issuance of degrees to the students enrolled in those institutions/college from such foreign-based educational institutions.
UGC has clarified that any such kind of collaboration/ arrangement is not recognized by the Commission and accordingly the degrees issued subsequent to such collaboration arrangement are also not recognized.
Apart from this, UGC has found that some EdTech companies are giving advertisements in newspaper, social media, television etc. offering degree and diploma programmes in Online modes in association with some foreign universities/institutions.
“Such a franchisee arrangement is not permissible and any such programme/degree shall not have UGC recognition. Action will be also be taken against all the defaulting EdTech companies as well as the HEls under applicable laws/rules/regulations,” UGC said in its notice.
While the ruling Biju Janata Dal (BJD) is extensively harping on its ‘ Nua-O’ scheme, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) seems to be eyeing to grab the young voters' attention through the recent UGC directive of having selfie points in universities and colleges.
The Odisha government recently asked all state public universities and degree colleges to use the scheme name ‘ Nua-O’ instead of IYDP in all creatives and communications. It is pertinent to mention here that the Higher Education Department and the Department of Sports and Youth Services decided to organise cultural and sports competitions through the Integrated Youth Development Programme (IYDP).
However, the name has been now changed to Nutana Unnata Abhilasha (NUA) Odisha (NUA-O). The question remains- what prompted the Odisha government to go for the change in the name?
Opposition parties allege that it is mainly due to a lack of branding of CM Naveen Patnaik in IYDP. Hence, BJD is now promoting NUA-O with the CM’s name and photograph. The posters and banners of NUA-O are now dotting several campuses across the state.
“Branding or not, it doesn’t matter. The thing that matters is what is the scheme all about as it has pleased the students and it will certainly help in the formation of a new Odisha,” said Odisha Higher Education Minister, Atanu Sabyasachi Nayak.
Politics is also active after UGC’s directive to universities to set up selfie points having a photograph of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to showcase various achievements. BJP claims that it is a move to educate and create awareness among students about the National Education Policy, while at the same time, the BJD is trying to campaign for votes by painting campuses ‘green’ (the BJD’s party colour).
“BJD is doing gimmick and instead of focusing on improving infrastructure, research facilities, bringing better lecturers, the party is focusing on promoting CM Naveen Patnaik through its NUA-O scheme. The youths have understood such a ploy. The Centre has taken steps to ensure that everybody knows about the tremendous developments in the education sector,” said state BJP Secretary, Irashish Acharya.
Meanwhile, BJD claims that it is a scheme to unite the youths and there is no politics in the name change. Congress, on the other hand, said both BJD and BJP are indulging in campaigning using people’s money.
"The BJD and BJP’s move is to attract new voters through Nua-O and selfie points. The day selfie points and banners will be put up on campuses, the Congress will oppose it. Under no circumstances, politics will be encouraged on campuses,” said Congress Spokesperson, Krushnachandra Pati.
It is pertinent to mention here that senior leader Soumya Ranjan Patnaik was ousted from BJD for criticising the Odisha government over the cancellation of the Students' Union election which has not been held for the last 5 years. However, the BJD is carrying out a membership drive by forming campus committees.
At a time when several educational institutions lack playgrounds, and adequate classrooms apart from shortage of lecturers, the move to organise cultural and sports competition by spending crores has raised eyebrows.
“There is no problem in doing anything related to votes outside campuses. The drive to divide students on campuses is not justified. Why students’ union election has been stopped? The promotion of party leaders and party ideology on campuses is not called for,” said senior political expert, Rabi Das.
UGC Chairman Prof Mamidala Jagadesh Kumar told IANS that anyone who has passed the 10 plus 2 or eligible for admission to any undergraduate programme is a suitable candidate for the short term courses.
“The HEI shall offer credit-linked short-term skill development certificate courses of 3-6 months. The HEI shall use a credit mechanism to design the course structure," he told IANS.
Kumar said that the HEI may consider offering short-term skill development courses from the broad areas such as Artificial Intelligence, and machine learning, Artificial Intelligence, and Robotics IoT (Internet of Things), Industrial IoT, Smart Cities, Data Science and Analytics, Cloud Computing, Virtual Reality, Augmented Reality and Extended Reality, Cyber Security and Digital Forensics.
He said that beside these courses the higher educational Institutions can also focus on 5G connectivity, Digital Fluency or Digital transformation, Industrial Automation and Robotics Process Automation (RPA), Electronic System Designs, Electronic Manufacturing and Basic Coding in Computing Languages.
Kumar said that a short-term skill development course in any stream shall be at least 12 credits and a maximum of 30 credits.
“The short-term skill development course must have a greater focus on practical learning. The HEIs may develop a plan to facilitate employment opportunities and internships for the successful students completing the short-term skill development course,” Kumar said.
He said that the higher educational institutions may collaborate with the relevant Sector Skills Councils or Awarding Bodies and industries to gain credibility, access to placement opportunities, funding schemes and training, and ensure up-to-date course content.
Kumar said that the objective of these courses is to formulate the premise for integrating skilling into higher education at all levels and for introducing short-term industry-relevant courses (Certificate courses) in the Higher Educational Institutes (HEls) to bridge the skill gap.
(Disclaimer: Except for the headline, this story, from a syndicated feed, has not been edited by Odishatv.in staff)
As per its latest notice, UGC said that all the universities are required to comply with the Regulations by constituting the Students Grievance Redressal Committee (SGRC) by appointing Ombudspersons. However, it is understood that some universities are yet to comply with the regulations.
The matter is being viewed seriously, UGC Secretary Manish R. Joshi said in his letter to the vice-chancellors of Central, State, Private, and Deemed Universities.
The UGC has asked universities to promptly appoint Ombudsperson(s) and implement other provisions of UGC Regulations on or before December 31, 2023.
“Since enough opportunities have been provided to the Universities, it has been decided to publish the names of defaulting Universities on the website of UGC after December 31, 2023,” the UGC letter read.
It is pertinent to mention here that UGC had notified the University Grants Commission (Redressal of Grievances of Students) Regulations, 2023 in the Official Gazette on April 11, 2023.
“Let us celebrate and disseminate the incredible strides made by our country by establishing a selfie point within your institution. The aim of selfie point is to create awareness among the youth about India’s achievements in various fields, particularly the new initiatives under the NEP 2020,” the UGC letter read.
In its letter, the UGC further believed that these selfie points would not only serve as a source of pride but also enlighten every citizen about the transformative initiatives that have propelled India’s growth on the global stage.
“We have received a UGC letter regarding having a selfie point in the institution to create awareness among youth about NEP 2020 and other issues,” said Vice-Chancellor of RD Women’s University, Prof. Aparajita Choudhry.
Meanwhile, politics is now active in Odisha as earlier the Odisha government has put up banners about various educational schemes on campuses.
“The UGC circular aims at ensuring that the young minds connect with India’s transformation and include themselves and it will be a great factor,” said BJP Yuva Morcha President, Abhilash Panda.
Odisha Student Congress president Yasir Nawaz said, “We have seen many Chief Ministers and Prime Ministers who were not keen on having photo competitions on campuses and publicity. The educational ambiance in educational institutions will go for a toss by putting up selfie points with PM Narendra Modi’s image and banners of others having Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik’s picture.”
The deadline has been extended in view of the various representations from candidates for extension of last date for submission of online applications. Accordingly, the NTA has extended the registration deadline up to October 31, 2023.
“In continuation to the public notice dated September 30, 2023 regarding submission of online application form for UGC NET December 2023 for Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) and eligibility for Assistant Professor, the NTA has decided to extend the last date for submission of online application,” the NTA notice read.
Online application form: Extended up to October 31, 2023.
Last date for submission of examination fee: October 31, 2023.
For more details, visit the official NTA website.
Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) is the flagship scheme of the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) introduced in 2015. The PMKVY is meant for imparting short-term skill training programme. It aims at creating an industry-ready workforce across spectrum of sectors and job roles.
Senior officials informed that PMKVY 4.0 has introduced various marquee initiatives to cope up with the changing market-needs and economic landscape. The enhancements include- on-the job training, expansion of skilling institutions network for integration with education, skilling for all, training in the new age courses relevant to the industry.
Under such circumstances, the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) has decided to assign/ establish ‘skill hubs’ at identified higher educational institutions of national repute under the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) 4.0.
In its latest letter to all universities and colleges, the UGC has asked to send willingness and course/ job-role-wise demand to operationalise the scheme and manage it digitally on the Skill India portal.
UGC Chairman Prof M. Jagadesh Kumar told IANS that the launch of the UGC India WhatsApp Channel is a significant step towards fostering a more inclusive and informed higher education landscape.
“By embracing technology and utilising a widely used platform, the UGC is modernising its communication strategy and enabling stakeholders to navigate the information on higher education in real-time,” he said.
He said that this initiative sets a precedent for leveraging digital tools to enhance accessibility, transparency, and efficiency in education governance.
He said that the launch of the UGC India WhatsApp Channel marks a significant leap towards democratising access to crucial information in the realm of higher education.
He said that this innovative initiative ensures that a diverse array of stakeholders, including Higher Educational Institutions, educators, students, and others, can effortlessly access authentic and up-to-date information at their fingertips.
UGC said that one of the key advantages of this platform is its inclusivity. Recognising that not everyone may have seamless access to UGC websites or other social media handles, the WhatsApp Channel becomes a powerful tool for reaching a broader audience, UGC said.
“In a country as diverse as India, where connectivity varies, this initiative bridges the digital divide and ensures that policy updates on higher education are readily available to all,” UGC said.
UGC said that the stakeholders can use the link to join UGC India WhatsApp Channel:
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaCh6c50gcfMkcXzgq1w
The draft of the "Guidelines for internship and research internship for undergraduate students" was released on Tuesday in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 that emphasises the inclusion of research and internships in the undergraduate (UG) curriculum to provide opportunities to students for active engagement in on-site experiential learning.
"A minimum of two to four credits, out of the required minimum 120/160 credits, of a three-year UG degree/four-year UG degree (Honours)/four-year UG degree (Honours with Research) can be assigned for internship as per the National Higher Education Qualifications Framework (NHEQF) and Curriculum and Credit Framework for Undergraduate Programme (CCFUP)," the draft guidelines stated.
They stated that an internship of 60 to 120 hours after the fourth semester will be mandatory for the students enrolled in UG degree programmes.
"Three-year UG degree, four-year UG degree (Honours) and four-year degree (Honours with Research) programme will be operating strictly adhering to NEP-2020, NHEQF and CCFUP provisions," the draft guidelines stated.
"Based on the higher education qualification level descriptors for level-5.5 and level-6 some of the competencies with research orientation should be attained by the students by studying the courses under the Research Ability Enhancement Courses (RAEC) and by undertaking the research internship project," they stated.
For students pursuing a three-year UG degree an internship of 60 to 120 hours duration after the fourth semester will be mandatory, and for those who will opt for a four-year degree a research internship during the eighth semester will be a mandatory component.
While normal internships can be done with government or private organisations, non-government organisations, enterprises, business organisations, local industry, artistes, craftspeople, and similar other entities, research internship experience can be gained by working with faculty, scientists, mentors in higher education institutions (HEIs), research institutions, universities, industrial research labs, nationally and internationally reputed organisations, farmers, and entrepreneurs, the guidelines stated.
"Each HEI should have a nodal officer who is responsible for developing need and demand-led verticals as well as expectations from each vertical in undergraduate programmes…to define verticals, HEIs must undertake a survey in the local market to understand the needs of companies and the expectations of student," the draft guidelines stated.
The commission has also suggested various vertices including trade and agriculture, economy and banking financial, logistics, information technology, art, design and music, healthcare and life science, sports, wellness and physical education, and environment, among others.
"The interns will be evaluated by the research internship supervisor based on their efforts and research output, or the interns will be evaluated through seminar presentation or viva-voce at the HEI," the draft guidelines stated.
The initiative is being taken by the University Grants Commission (UGC) to bring more transparency and ensure that students are not misled.
For this, the UGC has made a ‘Minimum-Mandatory Disclosure’ regulation under which the HEIs will also disclose their National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) and National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) rankings.
Professor M Jagadesh Kumar, Chairman, UGC told IANS, “Of late different stakeholders in the higher education system like prospective students, parents, research scholars, government officials, alumni and the public at large desire to seek certain basic information from the websites of different Universities/HEIs.
“We have found that the websites of several universities lack basic minimum information related to their institute and many times their websites are not functional or updated.
“At this defining moment, when we are celebrating the third year of the National Education Policy 2020, it would be prudent to desire that HEIs provide basic minimum information and updated content on their websites.
“Hence, we have prepared a checklist of this information to be provided by the universities on their websites.”
The UGC has prepared a detailed document on the information that needs to be disclosed on the websites of the HEIs, which it will make public in a few days for feedback. The UGC has sent this document to all institutions.
The document states that the ‘Minimum Mandatory Disclosure’ rule for HEIs will mandate that the institutions have an ‘About us’ page, Act and Statutes or MoA and information regarding the Institutional Development Plan, Annual Reports, Constituent Units, Affiliated Colleges, Off-campus and Off-shore campus.
According to the UGC the universities and colleges will also have to upload details of their accreditation and nation rankings, and have profiles of senior administrative officials like the Chancellor, Vice Chancellor, Pro-Vice Chancellor and Registrar, etc.
The institutions will also be required to upload details of academic programs, academic calendar, schools/departments/centres, faculty details with photographs, admissions and fee along with other important details, the UGC added.
The list of the fake institutes has been uploaded on the official website of the commission- https://www.ugc.gov.in.
As per the list, Delhi has highest number of eight fake universities followed by Uttar Pradesh which has four such institutes. Andhra Pradesh and West Bengal have two fake universities each while Karnataka, Kerala, Maharashtra and Puducherry have one fake varsity each.
"UGC has written to the concerned States Govt. Departments of Higher Education/ Principal Secretaries and States for take appropriate action against the fake Institutions," the official website stated.
In an earlier notice, the higher education regulator had stated that degree can be awarded only by Universities/Institutions which are established under a State Act or Central Act or Provincial Act or institution, empowered to confer or grant degrees as per UGC Act, 1956.
"However, it has come to the notice of UGC that a number of institutions are offering degrees in contrary to the provisions of the UGC Act. Degrees awarded by such universities/institutions shall neither be recognized nor valid for higher education and employment purposes," the August 1 notification stated.
"Hence, all concerned are requested to check the UGC website, www.ugc.ac.in for information about recognized universities/institutions as well as fake institutions before taking admission in any institution for higher education. Further, if any university/institution is offering academic programmes in contravention of the UGC Act, the same may also be brought to the notice of UGC via email to ugcampccgmail.com so that appropriate action can be taken against such institutions," it added.
Here's state-wise list of Fake Universities as on September , 2023
Andhra Pradesh
1. Christ New Testament Deemed University, #32-32-2003, 7th Lane, Kakumanuvarithoto, Guntur, Andhra Pradesh-522002 and another address of Christ New Testament Deemed University, Fit No. 301, Grace Villa Apts., 7/5, Srinagar, Guntur, Andhra Pradesh-522002
2. Bible Open University of India, H.No. 49-35-26, N.G.O’s Colony, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh-530016.
Delhi
1. All India Institute of Public & Physical Health Sciences (AIIPHS) State Government University, Office Kh. No. 608-609, 1st Floor, Sant Kripal Singh Public Trust Building, Near BDO Office, Alipur, Delhi-110036
2. Commercial University Ltd., Daryaganj, Delhi.
3. United Nations University, Delhi.
4. Vocational University, Delhi.
5. ADR-Centric Juridical University, ADR House, 8J, Gopala Tower, 25 Rajendra Place, New Delhi - 110 008.
6. Indian Institute of Science and Engineering, New Delhi.
7. Viswakarma Open University for Self-Employment, Rozgar Sewasadan, 672, Sanjay Enclave, Opp. GTK Depot, Delhi-110033.
8. Adhyatmik Vishwavidyalaya (Spiritual University), 351-352, Phase-I, Block-A, Vijay Vihar, Rithala, Rohini, Delhi-110085
Karnataka
1. Badaganvi Sarkar World Open University Education Society, Gokak, Belgaum, Karnataka.
Kerala
1. St. John’s University, Kishanattam, Kerala.
Maharashtra
1. Raja Arabic University, Nagpur, Maharashtra.
Puducherry
1. Sree Bodhi Academy of Higher Education, No. 186, Thilaspet, Vazhuthavoor Road, Puducherry-605009
Uttar Pradesh
1. Gandhi Hindi Vidyapith, Prayag, Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh.
2. National University of Electro Complex Homeopathy, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh.
3. Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose University (Open University), Achaltal, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh.
4. Bhartiya Shiksha Parishad, Bharat Bhawan, Matiyari Chinhat, Faizabad Road, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh – 227 105
West Bengal
1. Indian Institute of Alternative Medicine, Kolkatta.
2. Institute of Alternative Medicine and Research,8-A, Diamond Harbour Road, Builtech inn, 2nd Floor, Thakurpurkur, Kolkatta - 700063
As per the UGC notification, students should confirm the status of the Higher Education Institution for ODL and online education. The students can check the academic session-wise status of Higher Education Institutions on the official UGC website. Meanwhile, the last date of admission for all Higher Education Institution for offering ODL and online education for the academic session July-August is September 30, 2023.
The UGC has also instructed the Higher Education Institutions that are entitled to offer ODL and online education to upload details like- application, affidavit, regulatory authority approval and additional information on their website.
Programmes in the following disciplines (including their allied domains) are prohibited to be offered under ODL and online mode:
Engineering, Medical, Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy and other Para-Medical disciplines, Pharmacy, Nursing, Dental, Architecture, Law, Agriculture, Horticulture, Hotel Management, Catering Technology, Culinary Sciences, Aircraft Maintenance, Visual Arts and Sports, Aviation.
As per UGC, any other programme is not permitted to be offered through ODL and online by any concerned statutory or regulatory body or council. Accordingly, Yoga and Tourism and Hospitality Management programmes at UG and PG level are not permitted in online mode.
Apart from the above, M.Phil and Ph.D programmes in all disciplines through ODL and online are also prohibited.
As per the NTA exam calendar, the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test-Undergraduate or NEET UG 2024 will be conducted on May 5.
The NEET UG is conducted for admission to undergraduate medical courses at institutions across the country.
The Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Main 2024 will be held in two sessions- first session of JEE Main between January 24 and February 1, and second session between April 1 and 15.
The JEE Main exam is conducted for admission to undergraduate engineering courses in different engineering colleges across the country.
As per NTA, the Common University Entrance Test (CUET) UG is all set to be held between May 15 and 31. Similarly, the CUET PG exam will be conducted between March 11 and 28.
The first session of the University Grants Commission National Eligibility Test or UGC NET 2024 will be conducted from June 10 to 21.
Meanwhile, the first session of UGC NET 2024 will be held between June 10 and 21. It will be conducted in Computer Based Test (CBT) mode.
“The Examination Specific details shall be informed to candidates through the Information Bulletin of respective examinations, which will be published at the time of launch of Registration Forms of these examinations. The results of all CBT Examinations shall be announced within three weeks of the conclusion of the examination. For NEET (UG) 2024, the results shall be declared by second week of June, 2024,” the NTA informed.
The exam conducting agency further advised candidates to visit the official website of NTA www.nta.ac.in for the latest updates and clarification related to the examination dates and other instructions.
The UGC in August shared the examination dates for SWAYAM Courses offered in January and July 2023 Semester. The National Testing Agency (NTA) has also declared the schedule of examination for the SWAYAM Courses offered in the January 2023 Semester.
Online Submission of Application Form: 31 August 2023 to 20 September 2023
Last date of successful transaction of fee through Credit/debit card/Net Banking/UPl: 21 September 2023 (upto 11:50 PM)
Correction of particulars of application form on website only: 23 September to 25 September 2023
Date of Examination: 19, 20,21 October 2023
Duration: 180 Minutes (03:00 Hours)
Timing of Examination: Shift-l (09:00 A M. to 12:00 Noon) Shift-ll (03:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M)
Medium of the question paper: English, except in language courses where the question paper will only be in the respective language.
Organised by the University Grants Commission in association with the Ministry of Education, the Malaviya Mission - Teacher Training Programme aims at providing tailored training programmes for teachers. The programme will act towards the capacity building of faculty members in higher educational institutions.
While speaking on the occasion, Pradhan announced the renaming of Human Resource Development Centres (HRDCs) as Madan Mohan Malaviya Teachers’ Training Centre. According to Pradhan, the programme will ensure continuous professional development and help in building capacities of 15 lakh teachers of HEIs through 111 Malaviya Mission centres across India in a time-bound manner.
University Grants Commission (UGC) Chairman, Prof. M. Jagadesh Kumar expressed that the teachers' training programme shall help develop innovative teaching methods and high-level institutional facilities in all the constituent areas of higher education.
The first year student of Bengali honours had died on August 10 after falling from the balcony of a students’ hostel. It is suspected that he became a victim of ragging.
The probe panel has also suggested that the JU authorities should lodge FIRs against the six former students who were present at the students’ hostel at the time of the 'mishap'.
It also recommended suspension of 15 students for one semester, 11 students for two semesters and five for four semesters.
One current research scholar associated with the university should be barred from entering the campus for life after the completion of his research, the probe panel suggested.
The committee also said that a thorough inquiry should be initiated against the superintendent of the main students’ hostel where the mishap took place on August 10, especially on complaints of negligence on his part. If the complaints are found justified, disciplinary actions should be initiated against him, it suggested.
It is learnt that the internal probe committee submitted its report after recording the versions of as many as 140 witnesses. Besides video-recording of the verbal statements, the signatures of the witnesses were also taken on written statements in the matter.
Meanwhile, JU insiders said that during the second round of meeting with the representatives of the anti-ragging cell of the University Grants Commission (UGC), the university authorities faced a lot of uncomfortable questions to which they did not have any answer.
One such question was whether the JU authorities ever took any action against any student for his/her involvement in ragging, or whether any student against whom charges of ragging were proved has ever been suspended for a specific period of time.
The UGC representatives also expressed dismay over the fact that the executive committee meeting of the university had not been convened for quite some time now.
In its latest letter to the Vice-Chancellors of all universities and Principals of Colleges, the UGC has cited certain news reports in media that some State Governments are considering the printing of the full Aadhaar number of university students on provisional certificates and degrees issued by the universities, for subsequent use in verification of the said documents at the time of recruitment or admission.
According to UGC, sub-regulation (3) of regulation 6 of the Aadhaar (Sharing of Information) Regulations, 2016 provides that no entity in possession of the Aadhaar number shall make public any database or record containing the same, unless the Aadhaar number has been redacted or blacked out through appropriate means.
“Under the regulations, as they currently stand, printing of the Aadhaar number on provisional certificates and degrees is not permissible," said UGC in its directive.
The UGC further said, “The Higher Education Institutions are, therefore, requested to strictly comply with the rules and regulations of the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI).”
“Let's witness India's historical journey to the moon! The Higher Education Institutions are requested to organise live streaming of Chandrayaan-3 landing on Moon 23rd August 2023 from 05:30 PM onwards at https://isro.gov.in,” UGC India said in a tweet on Monday.
Let's witness India's historical journey to the moon!
— UGC INDIA (@ugc_india) August 21, 2023
The Higher Education Institutions are requested to organise livestreaming of Chandrayaan-3 landing on Moon
23rd August 2023 from 05:30 PM Onwards at https://t.co/3LiwTqnXid#Chandrayaan3 #HistoricalJourney #IndiaToTheMoon pic.twitter.com/ZIu7IeZhAh
This initiative comes as India's third lunar mission approaches its anticipated landing.
Terming the landing of Chandrayaan-3 a significant step forward for Indian Science, Engineering, Technology and Industry, the commission said, “The landing of India's Chandrayaan-3 is a monumental occasion that will not only fuel curiosity but also spark a passion for exploration within the minds of our youth. It will generate a profound sense of pride and unity as we collectively celebrate the prowess of Indian science and technology. It will contribute to fostering an environment of scientific inquiry and innovation.”
It further added, “Prime Minister Narendra Modi will also join the Nation in witnessing this momentous occasion.”
As per the notification of UGC, the event will be broadcast live on August 23, 2023, starting from 17:27 hrs IST.
The live coverage will be available via multiple platforms, including the ISRO Website (https://www.isro.gov.in/), ISRO's official YouTube channel (ISRO Official'), ISRO's Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/ISRO), and DD National TV channel.
The JU sent the first report to the commission early this week.
The fresh notice has come just 48 hours after the JU registrar Snehomonju Basu on Tuesday afternoon claimed that UGC has expressed satisfaction over the first report. Basu also claimed that the commission was so satisfied with the report that it has even cancelled the schooled visit of its anti- ragging cell members to the university on August 16.
In the second notice that reached via an email to the JU authorities on Thursday afternoon, the UGC has questioned whether brochures circulated by the university authorities to the fresher students contained the contact numbers of the ragging- helpline and anti- ragging committee of JU.
The UGC has also questioned whether the JU authorities had an undertaking from the students about understanding the punishments that involvement in raging will attract. The commission also questioned whether the JU authorities got a separate undertaking from the guardians on this count.
The commission has also questioned whether the JU authorities follow the practice of holding meetings with teachers, wardens, students’ representatives, guardians and local administration, including police before the beginning of every academic year.
Finally, the commission has again questioned whether the JU authorities had created a separate hostel for the fresher or first- year students imposing restriction on senior students from accessing that.
The JU authorities have been asked to give these clarifications to the commission within 24 hours from the time of the receipt of this notice.
"It has come to the notice of the UGC that a number of institutions are offering degrees in contrary to the provisions of the UGC Act. Degrees awarded by such universities shall neither be recognised nor valid for higher education or employment purpose. These universities are not empowered to confer any degree," UGC secretary Manish Joshi said.
These universities are "fake", he said while releasing a list of these institutions.
Delhi has eight "fake" universities -- All India Institute of Public and Physical Health Sciences; Commercial University Ltd, Daryaganj; United Nations University; Vocational University; ADR-Centric Juridical University; Indian Institution of Science and Engineering; Viswakarma Open University for Self-Employment; and Adhyatmik Vishwavidyalaya (Spiritual University), according to the UGC.
Uttar Pradesh has four such universities — Gandhi Hindi Vidyapith; National University of Electro Complex Homeopathy; Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose University (Open university); and Bhartiya Shiksha Parishad.
Andhra Pradesh and West Bengal have two such universities each. These are Christ New Testament Deemed University and Bible Open University of India in Andhra Pradesh, and Indian Institute of Alternative Medicine and Institute of Alternative Medicine and Research in West Bengal.
Badaganvi Sarkar World Open University Education Society (Karnataka), St John's University (Kerala), Raja Arabic University (Maharashtra) and Sree Bodhi Academy of Higher Education (Puducherry) are also on the list.
In a letter to vice-chancellors of all universities and principals of colleges, the UGC has asked the HEIs to share information senior officers or professors working/ retired up to the age of 65 years in level 13 A and above (as per 7 CPC).
The HEIs have been asked to mail the details including name, date of birth, name of organisation presently working, educational qualification, discipline specialisation, pay level, mobile number and email.
It is pertinent to mention here that UPSC conducts interviews for selecting candidates for appointment to various gazetted posts. The UPSC also utilises the services of senior civil servants, academicians, armed forces, scientists, doctors, engineers, professors and subject experts to assist the Commission as advisors.
“The UPSC is presently in the process of expanding its database with more names of senior officers or professors serving or retired with expertise in any field of education (preferably education technology (ICT), school education, education laws, education promotion and outreach programme,” the UGC letter to HEIs read.
It is vital for higher educational institutions to prepare the course structure, syllabus, and course material in various Indian languages which will automatically instil the universities to provide the facility to students to write examinations in one’s own mother tongue or local language.
According to UGC, higher educational institutions can undertake extensive translation work along with the original writing of textbooks into various Indian languages. To pursue this broad task of translation of study materials into various Indian languages, universities may also consider employing machine translation tools as well.
However, it is crucial to uphold some language and course-specific standards while translating the study material into various Indian languages.
Translation shall be simple and concise while maintaining the original meaning of the text and concepts. Use of long sentences with multiple clauses may be avoided as far as possible.
'ANUVADINI’, the Al based translation tool for Indian languages, developed by the AICTE may be used for translation. The Commission for Scientific and Technical Terminology (CSM) has developed standard glossaries of various subjects. They may be accessed and used while doing the translation.
The Grantha Academies of different states, the language departments of different universities, and other institutes have also published glossaries in regional languages.
For the easy understanding of the students, the complex technical terms may be given in English within the brackets after the Indian language equivalents of the same if they are available.
Translation shall always convey the complete meaning and concept of the original text. It need not necessarily be a word-to-word translation.
For more details, visit the official UGC website or click HERE
"PhD qualification for appointment as an assistant professor would continue to be optional. The National Eligibility Test (NET), State Eligibility Test (SET) and State Level Eligibility Test (SLET) shall be the minimum criteria for the direct recruitment to the post of assistant professor for all Higher Education Institutions," said UGC Chairman, M Jagadesh Kumar.
UGC Gazette Notification: Ph.D. qualification for appointment as an Assistant Professor would be optional from 01 July 2023. NET/SET/SLET shall be the minimum criteria for the direct recruitment to the post of Assistant Professor for all Higher Education Institutions. pic.twitter.com/DRtdP7sqOj
— Mamidala Jagadesh Kumar (@mamidala90) July 5, 2023
In 2018, the UGC set the criteria for recruitment for entry-level posts at universities and colleges. It gave a three-year window to candidates to complete their PhDs and asked all universities and colleges to start applying the criteria for recruitment from the 2021-22 academic session.
However, the UGC in 2021 extended the date of applicability of PhD as the minimum qualification for recruitment of assistant professors in universities from July 2021 to July 2023.
The decision came amid the Covid pandemic that brought the research work of PhD students to a standstill due to the prolonged closure of educational institutions.
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan also said in 2021 that making PhD degree mandatory for the post of assistant professor at universities is "not favourable" in the current education system.
"We believe that a PhD is not required to become an assistant professor. This condition cannot be kept if good talent is to be drawn to teaching. Yes, it is required at the level of associate professors and professors. But a PhD for an assistant professor is perhaps not favourable in our system and that's why we have rectified it," he had said.
UGC chairman Mamidala Jagadesh Kumar told IANS on Friday that a letter has been written to all Additional Chief Secretaries, Principal Secretaries, Education Secretaries and Secretaries of the Governors in this regard.
State Higher Education Councils of all states and Union Territories have also been sent the letter.
UGC Chairman said that any shortage in the availability of faculty members in higher educational institutions adversely affects the teaching-learning ecosystem. Therefore, the timely filling up of vacant faculty posts with appropriately eligible and competent candidates is essential and appropriate steps must be taken at the earliest.
In this regard, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has already notified the “UGC (Minimum Qualifications for Appointment of Teachers and Other Academic Staff in Universities and Colleges and Other Measures for the Maintenance of Standards in Higher Education) Regulations, 2018”.
These provide the minimum qualifications and other requirements for appointment and service conditions of university and college faculty members and are available on the UGC website, Kumar added.
UGC said in their letter, "you will appreciate that the most important factor in the success of higher educational institutions is the quality engagement of its faculty members as they are the pillars of all academic processes. They are envisioned as having the crucial responsibility of creating a conducive learning environment in the institution, developing programme-specific curricula, effective implementation of teaching-learning and evaluation processes and developing students as responsible members of society. Higher educational institutions are expected to strive towards engaging motivated, energised and capable faculty members to deliver quality education to learners."
UGC Chairman requested different state governments and said, "May I, therefore, request your personal intervention and request you to kindly ensure timely filling up of vacant faculty positions in the state universities and their affiliated colleges under your jurisdiction. This will go a long way in improving the quality of higher education in our country. Soliciting your cooperation in the matter."
The purpose of these guidelines for incorporating the Indian Knowledge System into higher curricula is to provide a roadmap for systematic study and research of various disciplines of IKS.
Every student enrolled in a UG or PG programme should be encouraged to take credit courses in IKS amounting in all to at least five per cent of the total mandated credits.
It is envisioned that the interested students studying in UG and PG courses may be allowed to take a larger fraction of the total mandated credits in the fields of IKS.
At least 50% of the credits apportioned to the IKS should be related to the major discipline and should be accounted for the credits assigned to the major discipline
The students may be encouraged to take these courses, preferably during the first four semesters of the UG programme. At least half of these mandated credits should be in courses in disciplines which are part of IKS and are related to the major field of specialization that the student is pursuing in the UG programme.
All the students should take a Foundational Course in the Indian Knowledge System, which is designed to present an overall introduction to all the streams of IKS relevant to the UG programme.
All UG-teaching Institutions should offer a large number of Elective Courses in IKS, from which the students may choose appropriately so as to complete a requisite number of courses and credits in IKS. Wherever possible, the students may be encouraged to choose a suitable topic related to IKS for their project work in the 7/8th semesters of the UG programme.
All the students studying for PG programmes in Arts, Commerce and Sciences should take an adequate number of advanced credit courses in any of the disciplines/topics that are part of IKS and related to their subject of specialization so that the total credits of the courses taken by the student in IKS amount to at least five per cent of the total mandated credits.
The students may be allowed to opt for taking additional courses in disciplines/ topics that are part of IKS if such an option is available and is consistent with the requirements of the PG programme.
A student may be considered for the award of a qualification (like a certificate/diploma/degree) once the required number of credits have been earned, irrespective of the minimum duration of the programme.
In view of the multiple entries and multiple exits in Higher Education, the National Credit Framework (NCrF), and the Curriculum and Credit Framework for Undergraduate Programmes (CCFUP) as envisaged under the NEP 2020, it would be appropriate to recognise qualifications at the level of undergraduate certificate, undergraduate diploma, and postgraduate diploma too.
The degree nomenclature may be modified to be in sync with international norms.
In case of specialisation or a major subject at the undergraduate level, the programme nomenclature on the degree certificate awarded to the students may also be written as “Bachelor of Arts/ Bachelor of Commerce / Bachelor of Science in specialisation”. For example, a Bachelor of Arts in Music may also be a specified nomenclature in addition to BA (Music).
The university is free to offer interdisciplinary and innovative specialisation in these programmes. In case the undergraduate degree programme is of three years duration, it may be referred to as BA / BCom / BSc. The existing three years undergraduate degree Honours programmes may also continue.
For a postgraduate degree programme either of one-year or two-year duration, the existing nomenclature of MA / MCom / MSc, etc., may continue.
A one-year or two-year postgraduate degree programme in any discipline may also have a Master of Science abbreviated as MS as a specified nomenclature.
This nomenclature shall apply to all disciplines like Sciences, Engineering and Technology, Arts, Humanities, Social Sciences, Business Administration, Management, Commerce etc. For more details, visit the official UGC website or click HERE
Union Minister of Education and Skill Development, Dharmendra Pradhan released the UGC (Institutions Deemed to be Universities) Regulations, 2023 in the presence of UGC Chairman Prof. Jagadesh Kumar.
It is pertinent to mention here that the first set of Regulations was notified in the year 2010 and was revised in 2016 and 2019. UGC constituted an expert committee to review and revise the Regulations following the announcement of the National Education Policy 2020 and in order to make the Regulations simple.
The eligibility criteria to apply for deemed to be university status is NAAC ‘A’ grade with at least a 3.01 CGPA for three consecutive cycles or NBA accreditation for two third of eligible programmes for three consecutive cycles or in the top 50 of any specific category of NIRF for the last three years continuously or in top 100 of overall NIRF Ranking for last three years continuously.
A cluster of institutions managed by more than one sponsoring body can also apply for deemed to be university status. Sponsoring bodies seeking deemed to be university status for their institutions may apply 'online'.
The Expert Committee assesses the facilities, interacts with stakeholders, and verifies the documents, all in virtual mode. Institution deemed to be University may start new courses or programmes in any field in their existing campus and approved off-campus centres, with the prior approval of its Executive Council and, also wherever applicable, with the approval of the relevant statutory council.
Institutions deemed to be Universities with minimum ‘A’ grade and above or ranked from 1 to 100 in the "Universities" category of NIRF rankings of the relevant year are eligible to set up off-campus centres. Institutions declared as deemed to be Universities under a “distinct category” can apply for off-campuses after five years of their declaration if they are accredited with an A grade or figured in the top 100 in the “universities” category of NIRF.
(With PIB Inputs)
The NTA has decided to give the first and final opportunity in view of the numerous representations received from the candidates regarding giving them an opportunity to edit/modify their particulars in the online application form.
Duration for Correction in Particulars: 02 June to 03 June 2023 (Up to 11:50 P.M.)
For candidates who have verified Aadhaar:
1. No change allowed in mobile number, email address, permanent address & correspondence address.
2. No change allowed in candidate’s name, date of birth, and gender.
3. Change is allowed either in father’s name or mother’s name (anyone only)
For Candidates who have not used Aadhaar for modification
1. No change allowed in mobile number, email address, permanent address & correspondence address.
2. No change allowed in the Photo
3. Change is allowed either in father’s name or mother’s name (anyone only)
Candidates may correct/modify/edit any of the particular(s) in the application form online, excluding the fields mentioned above.